Selecting a builder and/or remodeler is a fun journey!
To get started you will want to first define your project and have ideas to bring to the contractor to get the process started. From their, based on the initial information you have gathered you will enter the interview process. We suggest you use this process to connect with the contractor and determine if their vision, personality, and experience match what you are looking for and make your selection based on the contractor that best fits your needs.
Make sure to interview multiple contractors and go with the one you trust the most to complete your project in the manner in which you want it completed. DO NOT JUST ACCEPT THE LOWEST BID!! Once you have selected your contractor let the fun begin as you remodel or build your dream home or new space!
Use this checklist to help you select a home builder or home remodeler to work on or build your home.
- Contact BANI at ian@ba-ni.com or chris@ba-ni.com for the names of member builders and remodelers. You can also ask family, friends or coworkers for recommendations.
- Make sure the builder or home remodeler has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.
- Find out how long they have been in the building business. It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. You want to make sure they will be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties.
- Check out the company’s rating and if there have been any complaints filed with your local Better Business Bureau.
- Make sure the builder/remodeler has sufficient workers compensation and general liability insurance. If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises.
- Ask the builder/remodeler to provide you with names of previous customers. If they won’t, beware. If they do, ask the customers if they would hire the builder/remodeler again.
- Ask if you can see the builder/remodelers work, both completed and in progress. Check for quality of workmanship and materials.
- Do you feel you can easily communicate with the builder/remodeler? Remember you will be in close contact with them throughout the construction process and afterward as you live in your new home.
- Make sure the builder/remodeler provides you with a complete and clearly written contract. The contract will benefit both of you. If you are having a new home built, get and review a copy of the home warranty and homeowner manual as well.
- Be cautious of unusually low-priced bids. If the builder/remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem. Keep in mind that less expensive does not necessarily mean better!
- Verify that your remodeler is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Renovator if you are planning work in a pre-1978 home that will disturb more than six square feet of painted surfaces inside the home or 20 square feet on the exterior of the home.
Steuben County
Building Department
317 South Wayne St.
Angola, IN 46703
(260)668-1000
LaGrange County
Building Department
114 W Michigan St.
LaGrange IN 46761
Phone: 260-499-6305
Noble County
Building Department
2090 N State Rd. 9
Albion, IN 46701
260-636-2215
DeKalb County
Building Department
301 S Union St
Auburn, IN 46706
260-925-3021